Solent Sky given permission to build £5m extension

The city council has approved an application to create an extra 10,000 sq ft of exhibition space at the Solent Sky complex in Albert Road South.

Planning chiefs say the proposed development will support the vitality and viability of the museum.

People who supported the application included David Tavendale, of Southampton, whose letter to the council described the scheme as "an excellent addition to what is already one of the best and most educational museums in the area".

Mr Tavendale added: "The importance of this museum and its work to preserve our local heritage cannot be voiced enough.

"It has a countrywide reputation as a fantastic asset to the town and deserves massive respect and help in its efforts to advertise Southampton via its history. 

"We have a huge local heritage, especially in maritime and aviation, that a lot of other places would envy.

"Solent Sky volunteers are second to none where enthusiasm and knowledge is concerned. They should be hugely congratulated on how they have built up and bolstered the reputation of the museum under massively difficult circumstances."

The City of Southampton Society added: "We are pleased to add our support to this application to expand the facilities offered by the museum."

One of the aircraft that will go on show.
A council report said the single-storey extension would not harm the character and appearance of the existing building and would not appear unduly dominant.

It confirmed that no objections had been received from nearby residents, adding that the 15m gap between the museum and neighbouring flats would prevent harmful loss of light.

"The design shortcomings of the scheme are outweighed by the merits of delivering additional exhibition to house the museum’s extensive collection of aviation and industrial heritage. The additional space will enhance the museum and support its ongoing viability."

One of the aircraft that will go on show.
Exhibits will include three aircraft - a Supermarine Swift, a Britten-Norman Trislander and a Supermarine Walrus.

A museum spokesperson said: "Together with the new aircraft displays there will be an exhibition about Southampton’s industrial heritage including the Ford Transit van, Ordnance Survey and Hamble Airfield as well as a new cafeteria and gift shop.

"A partial recreation of Southampton’s spectacular Art Deco ‘Ocean Terminal’ building will be recreated within Solent Sky.

"It is hoped this new and improved version of Solent Sky will become a major heritage attraction in the south."